Two lean and mean fighters move around in circles, intimidating each other with rapid flips, turns, punches, leaps and kicks. Suddenly, a swift front-kick strikes down on one of the adversaries. A scene straight out of a Bruce Lee blockbuster, this is Kalaripayattu—martial arts, Kerala style—dedicated practice of which extends grace, speed, flexibility and strength to the practitioner.

So where should the fitness enthusiasts of Namma Bengaluru go to learn this art form? Meet Sensei Ranjan Mularatt, a student of renowned Master PK Balan Gurukkal. He runs the Kalari Academy of Performing Arts, where you get to learn this martial art form combined with classical and contemporary dance movements. Besides Kalaripayattu there are special workshops for dancers and theatre professionals as well.

Dilsagar is a dancer at the renowned Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts in Bangalore. Initiated into Kalaripayattu at a very tender age, Dilsagar has travelled all across the globe with his company, infusing new techniques into this art form.

Traditional Kalaripayattu is a blend of elegant aggression, breathtaking kicks, high-speed punches, use of weapons and gymnastic movements. Since injuries were common during combat and training, a unique healing science has also evolved with this art.

Sathyan Puthoor runs a therapy centre on KH Road called Nady Mardan Kriya. A Kalaripayattu exponent and teacher, he also practises yoga, meditation and karate. Sathyan specialises in neurotherapy that is largely based on Uzhichil, a massage technique in Kalaripayattu. Many people with chronic body pain and other ailments have found respite and cure at his centre.

The healing mechanism is a blend of traditional physiotherapy practices, medication and a special diet regimen. Says Sathyan, “The root cause of a number of diseases can be traced to the nerves. Exercising pressure on the nerves could, therefore, heal most of the disorders.”

So discover Kalaripayattu ... and be fighting fit!